R.I. House to honor executed WWII pilot

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A pilot who was shot down and executed during World War II is being honored in Rhode Island nearly 70 years after his death. State Representative Peter Martin is the sponsor of a resolution recognizing the service of Robert Thorpe, a Cranston native whose P-47 was shot down in the Pacific. Thorpe was captured and interrogated by the Japanese military before being executed. His remains have not been recovered. The House plans to pay tribute to Thorpe with a State House ceremony May 17. Thorpe’s brother, sister, and former commanding officer are expected to attend.